SEC595: Applied Data Science and AI/Machine Learning for Cybersecurity Professionals

Experience SANS training through course previews.
Learn MoreLet us help.
Contact usBecome a member for instant access to our free resources.
Sign UpWe're here to help.
Contact UsSarah and her family were thrilled with their new smart home devices, enjoying the ease of controlling lights and locks with just a few taps or voice commands. However, their excitement turned to alarm one night when Sarah noticed her smart thermostat adjusting itself unexpectedly. Initially dismissing it as a glitch, she became concerned when the lights began flickering and the front door mysteriously unlocked.
The situation escalated when a stranger's voice came through the baby monitor, describing her baby's room in detail. At that moment, Sarah realized their sanctuary had been breached. Cyber criminals had taken control of their smart devices, compromising their privacy and safety. The thought of strangers watching her baby sleep left Sarah feeling vulnerable and exposed. This unsettling experience underscored Sarah’s need to secure her smart home devices, not only the technology but also the safety and peace of mind of her entire family.
Smart home devices are internet-connected devices and appliances like thermostats, security cameras, smart locks, lights, and perhaps even your washing machine that make our homes more efficient, comfortable, and sometimes even more secure. These devices are controlled via apps, voice commands, or automated systems, offering unprecedented convenience.
However, the convenience they bring also comes with risks. Because these devices connect to the internet, they are vulnerable if not properly secured. When hacked, intruders can access your personal information, spy on your daily activities, and even control the physical devices inside your home.
Securing smart home devices isn't just about protecting the gadgets themselves; it's about safeguarding your entire household. Cyber attackers often look for the weakest devices they can find and start there.
Once compromised, a cyber attacker can use a hacked device to access other devices on your home network, steal sensitive data, or even unlock your doors. In an interconnected world, securing your smart devices is crucial to maintaining your personal safety, privacy, and peace of mind.
Smart Home Devices: Lock Them Down Before Cyber Criminals Do
Your smart home doesn’t have to become a playground for cyber criminals. By taking just a few steps, you can enjoy all that technology has to offer while sleeping better knowing you are in control.
Sai Sujitha Venkatesan is a senior security engineer on Dell's Product Security Incident Response Team and a member of the board for WiCyS (Women in CyberSecurity) Silicon Valley.
Learn more